IEMA Response to Autumn Statement 2016: “Strong Trinity of Themes, But Could Do Better”

Comment from IEMA’s Chief Policy Advisor Martin Baxter following Chancellor Phillip Hammond’s Autumn Statement This Afternoon.

IEMA’s Chief Policy Advisor Martin Baxter has commented on the detail of Chancellor of the Exchequer Phillip Hammond’s Autumn Statement, released earlier this afternoon.

Today’s Autumn Statement has provided some level of confidence for business in terms of investment at a time of uncertainty, which is a welcome move. Investment in infrastructure, industry and skills is a strong trinity of themes that together, will bolster the UK’s resilience, competitiveness and productivity. Given this direction, we are looking to the government to ensure that environment and sustainability skills are absolutely central to this programme. We are disappointed that this hasn’t thus far appeared to be prominent. We look forward to seeing this come through in the imminent industrial strategy, the emissions reduction plan and the 25-year environment plan.

Having said that, this statement has done little else to demonstrate Government’s commitment to environment and sustainability issues. Could do better!

Find out more about the Autumn Statement at www.gov.uk/government/publications/autumn-statement-2016-documents.